Reflexes and Spinal Cord Quiz

The patellar reflex is a:

• Tendon reflex

• Stretch reflex

• Withdrawal reflex

• Crossed extensor reflex

The tendon reflex prevents:

• Muscle tearing from excessive tension

• Muscle relaxation

• Reflex inhibition

• Muscle growth

In a withdrawal (flexor) reflex:

• Body moves toward stimulus

• Only extensors contract

• Body moves away from stimulus

• It is monosynaptic

Reciprocal inhibition means:

• Agonist and antagonist contract together

• Agonist contracts, antagonist relaxes

• Both muscles relax

• Both muscles spasm

Crossed extensor reflexes occur:

• Same side only

• Opposite side only

• Both same and opposite sides

• In the brain only

Monosynaptic reflexes have:

• One synapse

• Multiple synapses

• No synapse

• Only motor neurons

Polysynaptic reflexes:

• Are faster

• Involve interneurons

• Do not involve the spinal cord

• Never inhibit muscles

Higher brain centers can:

• Only stop reflexes

• Only start reflexes

• Facilitate or inhibit reflexes

• Have no effect on reflexes

Reinforcement of reflexes involves:

• Inhibiting interneurons

• Facilitating synapses to enhance response

• Destroying sensory neurons

• Removing reflex arcs

A Babinski sign in an adult suggests:

• Normal CNS

• CNS damage

• Healthy spinal reflex

• Strong muscle tone